Recognising the International Day of Persons with Disabilities – 3 December

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD), held annually on 3 December, is a significant moment in the global calendar. Established by the United Nations in 1992, the day was created to promote understanding of disability issues, support the rights and wellbeing of disabled people, and highlight the importance of inclusive, accessible environments across all areas of life.

More than thirty years on, IDPWD continues to shine a spotlight on the barriers that still exist for many people — and the opportunities we all have to create meaningful change.

Why Accessible Washrooms Matter

Accessibility extends far beyond building ramps and automatic doors. It includes the essential facilities people rely on every day, especially when they are away from home. Public and workplace washrooms are vital services, and their quality can significantly influence a person’s confidence, independence, and ability to participate fully in work, travel, and community life.

For disabled people, poorly designed or inaccessible washrooms can be a major obstacle. For some, it means limiting their time out of the house. For others, it may prevent them from going out at all.

How the Loo of the Year Awards Supports Accessibility

At the Loo of the Year Awards, accessibility is woven into everything we do. Our national inspection programme evaluates thousands of away-from-home washrooms each year, highlighting facilities that cater for all users — including disabled people, carers, and individuals who require additional space, equipment, or support.

Through our work, we aim to:

• Promote best practice across all sectors

• Encourage organisations to invest in accessible and inclusive washroom provision

• Support awareness of the need for Changing Places toilet facilities

• Celebrate those who prioritise dignity, independence, and inclusion

By recognising and rewarding excellence, we help drive positive change and raise the standard of washrooms for everyone.

A Shared Commitment to Inclusion

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that accessibility is not optional, it is a fundamental part of an equitable society. Everyone deserves access to safe, clean, and inclusive toilet facilities, wherever they go. For many disabled people and carers, this access determines whether they can participate fully in everyday life.

As we mark IDPWD, the Loo of the Year Awards remains committed to championing higher standards, encouraging innovation, and supporting organisations that are working to remove barriers.

Find Out More

If you would like to explore the wider work taking place to support disabled people and improve accessibility, here are some useful links:

• United Nations – International Day of Persons with Disabilities: background and global resources
  https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-of-persons-with-disabilities

• Changing Places Toilet Consortium: information on the need for Changing Places facilities and UK locations
  https://www.changing-places.org

• Disability Rights UK: information about accessible toilets and the RADAR National Key Scheme
  https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org

• AccessAble: detailed accessibility guides for venues across the UK
  https://www.accessable.co.uk

• Carers Trust: resources for carers, including information on accessible facilities
  https://carers.org